With John M. Gogol, Charles Seluzicki and Walt Curtis

All too few know of the remarkable links between dissident poets of Eastern Europe and nations worldwide and several enlightened publishers here in Oregon. For some two decades Mr. Cogito, a press based at Pacific University in Forest Grove, co-edited by John M. Gogol and Robert A. Davies, published exceptional poets in translation whose voices were being stifled in their own lands. These writers’ delight at being read beyond their borders stiffened their resolve to speak boldly about their own situations and perceptions. Charles Seluzicki, in several publications, including his Trace Press edition of Zbigniew Herbert of then East Germany, joined Mr. Cogito in this effort.

Poems they printed from Eastern Europe, the Middle East, the Americas, and the U.S will be read. The publishers will discuss their motives and enthusiasm, the value of translating and presenting authors from other lands, and how such efforts can go forward.

Brought to you by the Oregon Cultural Heritage Commission - http://ochcom.org